Sidelines

So the dry needling worked the first time, and I was able to get back out on the road for a few weeks. I felt great-- it was wonderful to get back out there.

But then...

I had been assigned some exercises in conjunction, and things went well as long as I did them. Then my calf seized up again two weeks ago during a six-miler, which was my longest run in several weeks. So I dragged my left leg home and went about the healing progress, stretching my calf and rolling it out at least once a day.

I ran once more that week and felt the same twinge after 2 1/2 miles or so, and the same thing happened. The outcome was similar when I went for a four-miler and had to cut it short.

So I went back for 'the treatment' again.

Only thing is, it was worse today. I'd slacked off on my strengthening exercises and paid for it. The therapist went in with a syringe and loosened up several smaller knots before he actually hooked up the dry needles to the electrodes. This intense throbbing was the most pain I've experienced as a runner, and it will definitely serve as a reminder.

So I'm back on the sidelines for a week or so, though he said to let pain be my guide. I've also got KT Tape on my left calf as a way of keeping it stretched out. I hobble around like a pirate when I first get up off the couch, but then it's not as bad when I walk around a bit. You should've seen me in the grocery store-- I was the guy waddling around with the black tape on his leg. Memories.

So my winter 5K/8K schedule is on hold again as I heal up. I think this is the longest period of time I've had to deal with something like this. Definitely frustrating, since I'm not really used to it. It has taught me a lesson though: I am a 40-something and have to do a better job of stretching and rolling and strength training. You know-- those things I always read about in the running mags but kind of blew off.

Can't do that anymore.

Bummer too, since the season seems to be changing already here in Georgia. Mornings have been cooler. I'll just be patient and have my coffee in the meanwhile, and be ready when my time comes.